History of The Aerie
The Aerie Main House
Experience a piece of living history at The Aerie, a premier bed and breakfast located in the heart of historic New Bern, North Carolina. Known formally as the Street-Ward House, this 1880 Victorian residence offers a unique glimpse into the coastal South’s architectural and social evolution and a Legacy of Notable Residents.
The Aerie has hosted a fascinating roster of North Carolina figures and historical tenants, including:
The Bradham Connection: The son of Caleb Bradham, the inventor of Pepsi-Cola.
Aviation History: A cousin of the Wright Brothers (who shared the name Orville).
Public Service: Home to a State Senator, a Justice of the Peace, and a dedicated social worker.
WWII Heroes: Housed residents serving during World War II
Built in 1882 by Samuel R. Street Jr., the home is a stunning example of Victorian craftsmanship. While the Alfred D. Ward family occupied the residence for most of the 20th century, the structure underwent significant transformations:
The Porch: Originally a one-story open porch (as seen on 1888 maps), it was enclosed and expanded into its iconic two-story porch in the mid-1920s.
Signature Windows: The home retains its original three-sided bay windows, featuring ornate pediment-style hoods and apron panels.
Interior Details: The interior showcases a center-hall plan with a grand staircase featuring massive turned newelsand sawn step-end brackets.
Fireplaces: While the chimneys are original, several Victorian mantels were updated to elegant Federal-period designs during the Ward era.
The Aerie Guest House
Discover The Roberts House, a cornerstone of the historic New Bern, NC landscape. Now serving as the Guest House at The Aerie, this 1908 residence offers travelers an authentic stay within a beautifully preserved piece of Craven County history.
Commissioned in 1908 by Frederick C. Roberts, the home was originally designed as a high-end rental property. The Roberts family, prominent figures in local society, resided directly across the street in a Victorian estate famous for its sprawling gardens—the site where the Robinson and Stith Insurance building stands today.
The Roberts House is a classic example of early 20th-century architecture, featuring distinct Colonial Revival elements that have evolved over the decades:
The Facade: Originally a two-bay-wide gable front with a full-width porch, the exterior now features a charming recessed porch supported by classic Tuscan columns.
Original Details: The entrance retains its period paneled front door and a slightly projecting window bay, preserving its 1908 curb appeal.
The Grand Staircase: Inside the foyer, a stunning Colonial Revival staircase rises in three runs, complemented by a traditional flat-panel closet wall.
Modern Restoration: While the interior finishes have been thoughtfully updated to serve as a luxury boutique guest house, the structural integrity and historic soul of the Roberts House remain intact.
